When a network of good roads is

created, the economy of the country

also picks up pace. Roads are veins

and arteries of the nation, which help

to transform the pace of development

and ensure that prosperity reaches

the farthest corners of our nation.”

NARENDRA MODI

Prime Minister

The picturesque State of Jammu and Kashmir, is dotted with tough geographical terrain and poor road connectivity.  Lofty mountains, slippery peaks, ridges, gorges, and ravines are the definition of J&K and Ladakh, which separate it from the rest of the country during the winter months.

However, with the recent developments, the road connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh regions has mitigated the threat of accidents, and for the first time allowed speedy, smooth travel. These road projects are revolutionising connectivity and bringing economic prosperity to the region.

Twenty five massive projects including National Highways in Jammu region, at a cost of Rs 11,800 crore and covering 259 kilometres would accelerate development and cultural connect with the rest of India. In 2014 the proposed road projects stood at 1,695 kilometres, but the Centre has challenged itself to 2,664 kilometres.

Among all the projects NH44 is of prime importance as it connects both the capitals of union territory. National Highway Project NH-44 would provide all-weather-connectivity from Jammu to the Kashmir valley. It will also reduce journey time from Jammu to Srinagar and strategic border areas in the State of J&K. Moreover, implementation of the project would result in development of basic infrastructure in the region which would ultimately lead to overall economic development of the regions of the State.

NH1-A (new NH-44) a 287 km long highway is an engineering marvel which will reduce the travelling time from Jammu to Srinagar drastically. The work is pending in Udhampur-Banihal stretch and it will be completed by 2023.

Addressing a rally in Doda, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said: “I assure you that this work will be completed in two years and you will be able to reach Srinagar from Jammu in four hours”

Nh 44 will contain 12 tunnels, which will reduce time, save fuel, save environment, reduce wear and tear of vehicles.

It contains two major tunnels:

Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee Tunnel

Banihal Qazigund Road Tunnel

Jammu to Udhampur section is completed.

The highway is 64 kilometres (40 mi) long passing through lofty mountain terrains. The highway is connected to the bypass road which connects Udhampur with Samba directly bye passing the Jammu City. Nandni tunnels are the series of four highway tunnels built under Nandni wild life sanctuary on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in  At a combined length of 1.4 km,

The tunnels have reduced the distance and travel time between Jammu and Srinagar by bypassing 6.8 km of rugged Mountainous area with 3.6 km of with straight bridges and tunnels.

The 4 laning of Udhampur-Chenani and Nashri-Ramban section is underway, to ensure all weather connectivity. It will contain 1 bypass, 5 major bridges, 29 minor bridges and 11 junctions.

 Qazigund – Srinagar is 68 km stretch and is completed.

These massive projects initiated by Government of India, are changing the shape of J&K and UT administration under the leadership of Hon’ble LG Sh. Manoj Sinha is giving prime concern to these development project and focusing on their early completion.